2-year survival and cost analysis of occlusoproximal ART restorations using encapsulated glass ionomer cement in primary molars: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The survival of ART restorations can be influenced by the choice of the restorative material. The aim of this randomized non-inferiority controlled trial was to compare the 2-year survival rate and cost analysis of two encapsulated glass ionomer cements (GIC) as occlusoproximal restorative materials in primary molars. METHODS: Children from public schools in Tietê (Brazil), aged 4-8 years with occlusoproximal dentine carious lesions in primary molars were selected and randomly assigned to receive either Equia Forte (EF) or Riva Self Cure (RSC) as restorative materials. Treatment was carried out by two trained final-year dental students in schools following ART premises. Restorations were assessed by a trained and calibrated examiner after 2, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. The primary outcome was restoration survival after 2 years, analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis (α = 5%). Professional and materials costs for each group were collected in Brazilian Reais (R$) and converted into US dollars (US$) and analyzed using Monte-Carlo simulation. RESULTS: A total of 152 children (76 per group) were included in the study, and 121 (79%) were evaluated after 2 years. The overall 2-year restoration survival rate was 39% (EF = 45%; RSC = 32%) with no difference between the groups. The baseline and 2-year total cost of restorations using RSC was lower when compared to EF (incremental cost: US$ 6.18). CONCLUSION: After two years of follow-up, Riva Self Cure shows comparable restoration survival rates to Equia Forte, being more cost-effective in the Brazilian perspective. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This randomized clinical trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.Gov - NCT02730000.

Clinical Effect Observation of Apatinib Combined with 131I for Radioiodine-Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer and Prognostic Significance Analysis of Macrophage Inflammatory Protein-1alpha After Treatment: A Cell Regulation Study / Observación del Efecto Clínico de Apatinib Combinado con 131I para el Cáncer de Tiroides Diferenciado Resistente al Yodo Radiactivo y Análisis de Importancia Pronóstica de la Proteína Inflamatoria 1alfa de Macrófagos Después del Tratamiento: Un Estudio de Regulación Celular

SUMMARY: The objective of this study was to observe the clinical efficacy of apatinib (AP) combined with 131I in the treatment of radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAIR-DTC) and the prognostic significance of MIP-1α after treatment, and to provide reference and guidance for future treatment and disease assessment of RAIR-DTC. One hundred and six patients with RAIR- DTC admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to October 2020 were selected for the study. All the patients were treated with TC surgery with 131I at our hospital, and 58 of them were subsequently transferred to AP treatment, which was considered as the research group; the other 48 patients were transferred to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) suppression treatment, which was considered as the control group. The clinical efficacy of the research group was better than that of the control group (P 0.05). After treatment, Tg, TL, maximum diameter of C/B lymph nodes, number of lymph nodes and number of calcified spots were lower in the research group than in the control group (P < 0.05). ROC analysis revealed that the predictive sensitivity of MIP-1α for prognosis of 3-year RAIR-DTC death in the research group of patients was 84.63 % and the specificity was 72.16 %. AP combined with 131I is effective in the treatment of RAIR-DTC and is worth using in the clinical practice. In addition, elevated levels of MIP-1α predicted a poor prognosis for patients with RAIR-DTC.

El objetivo de este estudio fue observar la eficacia clínica de apatinib (AP) combinado con 131I en el tratamiento del cáncer de tiroides diferenciado refractario al yodo radiactivo (RAIR-DTC) y la importancia pronóstica de MIP-1α después del tratamiento, y proporcionar referencia y orientación para futuros tratamientos y enfermedades. Evaluación de RAIR- DTC. Se seleccionaron para el estudio 106 pacientes con RAIR- DTC ingresados en nuestro hospital desde enero de 2019 hasta octubre de 2020. Todos los pacientes fueron tratados con cirugía CT con 131I, y 58 de ellos fueron trasladados posteriormente a tratamiento AP, los que fueron considerados como grupo de investigación; los otros 48 pacientes fueron transferidos a tratamiento de supresión de la hormona estimulante de la tiroides (TSH), que se consideró como grupo de control. La eficacia clínica del grupo de investigación fue mejor que la del grupo de control (P 0,05). Después del tratamiento, Tg, TL, diámetro máximo de los linfonodos C/B, número linfonodos y número de manchas calcificadas fueron menores en el grupo de investigación que en el grupo de control (P <0,05). El análisis ROC reveló que la sensibilidad predictiva de MIP-1α para el pronóstico de muerte por RAIR-DTC a 3 años en el grupo de pacientes de investigación fue del 84,63 % y la especificidad fue del 72,16 %. AP combinado con 131I es eficaz en el tratamiento del RAIR-DTC y vale la pena utilizarlo en la práctica clínica. Además, los niveles elevados de MIP-1α predijeron un mal pronóstico para los pacientes con RAIR- DTC.

Clinical study of modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction in treating hypertrophic scar after severe burn.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to study the curative effect and the relative mechanism of modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction in the treatment of hyperplastic scar after severe burn, in order to provide a stable, safe and satisfactory scheme for scar repair. METHODS: Forty cases with hyperplastic scars after severe burns admitted to the plastic surgery department from May 2021 to May 2022 were divided into a control group and an observation group by means of the random number table method. The control group was treated with ordinary laser therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction, while the observation group was treated with modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction. The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was assessed in both groups, and the clinical effectiveness of both groups was compared. HE-staining was performed on the scar tissue of the same patient before and after treatment to observe the changes in the arrangement of fibroblasts. The Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), ß-Transforming Growth Factor (TGF-ß), and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) in the tissue samples of both groups were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The patients were followed up for 6 months, and their satisfaction, side effects, and scar recurrence were observed. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the VSS score in the observation group was lower (p < 0.05). The therapeutic effect of the observation group was superior to the control group after 3 months (p < 0.05). After 3-months of therapy, the arrangement of fibroblasts in the scar became looser in two groups, and the observation group was more looser. The VEGF, TGF-ß and PDGF levels in tissue samples of the observation group were lower than those in the control group after 3 months of treatment (p < 0.05). The satisfaction of the observation group was higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05). The adverse reactions between the two groups showed no difference (p > 0.05), while the recurrence rate was lower in the observation group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction shows remarkable efficacy in patients with hyperplastic scars after severe burns. It can improve the color, thickness, vascular distribution, and softness of the scar, and reduce the level of cytokines related to tissue repair. At the same time, it can improve patients' satisfaction with the aesthetic appearance and reduce the recurrence rate, providing a new comprehensive therapy that is safer and more effective, simple and quick, and easy to promote in the clinic.

Perioperative analgesic efficacy and adverse events of fentanyl in dentistry: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy and adverse events linked to the utilization of fentanyl for perioperative pain management in dentistry. METHODS: This systematic review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and incorporated various databases. RESULTS: Eleven RCTs studying 674 patients were analyzed. Perioperative pain was predominantly evaluated in patients undergoing surgery for impacted molars, although some studies also included patients with other conditions such as oral submucous fibrosis, maxillary cancer, bony temporomandibular joint ankylosis, irreversible pulpitis, among others. Combined with dexmedetomidine, fentanyl produced enhanced analgesic effects. It demonstrated comparable efficacy when compared to nefopam and nalbuphine. Both intranasal and intravenous administration routes proved equally effective. In four RCTs, the transdermal fentanyl patch outperformed the control group, except in the clinical trial where it was compared to ropivacaine. The main adverse events associated with the use of fentanyl included nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, delirium, and respiratory depression; however, they were like those reported in the comparison groups. CONCLUSIONS: While fentanyl demonstrated satisfactory perioperative analgesic efficacy, there were other alternatives that displayed better or comparable outcomes. Due to the risks and potential for misuse of fentanyl, these alternatives must be considered although adverse events were also reported.

Clinical study of modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction in treating hypertrophic scar after severe burn

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to study the curative effect and the relative mechanism of modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction in the treatment of hyperplastic scar after severe burn, in order to provide a stable, safe and satisfactory scheme for scar repair. Methods: Forty cases with hyperplastic scars after severe burns admitted to the plastic surgery department from May 2021 to May 2022 were divided into a control group and an observation group by means of the random number table method. The control group was treated with ordinary laser therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction, while the observation group was treated with modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction. The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was assessed in both groups, and the clinical effectiveness of both groups was compared. HE-staining was performed on the scar tissue of the same patient before and after treatment to observe the changes in the arrangement of fibroblasts. The Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), β-Transforming Growth Factor (TGF-β), and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) in the tissue samples of both groups were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The patients were followed up for 6 months, and their satisfaction, side effects, and scar recurrence were observed. Results: Compared with the control group, the VSS score in the observation group was lower (p < 0.05). The therapeutic effect of the observation group was superior to the control group after 3 months (p < 0.05). After 3-months of therapy, the arrangement of fibroblasts in the scar became looser in two groups, and the observation group was more looser. The VEGF, TGF-β and PDGF levels in tissue samples of the observation group were lower than those in the control group after 3 months of treatment (p < 0.05). The satisfaction of the observation group was higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05). The adverse reactions between the two groups showed no difference (p > 0.05), while the recurrence rate was lower in the observation group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Modified photodynamic therapy combined with Taohong Siwu Decoction shows remarkable efficacy in patients with hyperplastic scars after severe burns. It can improve the color, thickness, vascular distribution, and softness of the scar, and reduce the level of cytokines related to tissue repair. At the same time, it can improve patients' satisfaction with the aesthetic appearance and reduce the recurrence rate, providing a new comprehensive therapy that is safer and more effective, simple and quick, and easy to promote in the clinic.

The Potential Clinical Applications of a Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip for the Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing of Enterococcus faecalis-Associated Endodontic Infections: A Systematic Review.

This systematic review evaluated the potential clinical use of microfluidic lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology in the identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing of E. faecalis in endodontic infections. The search methodology employed in this review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Multiple scientific databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and SCIELO, were utilized, along with exploration of grey literature sources. Up to September 2023, these resources were searched using specific keywords and MeSH terms. An initial comprehensive search yielded 202 articles. Ultimately, this systematic review incorporated 12 studies. Out of these, seven aimed to identify E. faecalis, while the remaining five evaluated its susceptibility to different antibiotics. All studies observed that the newly developed microfluidic chip significantly reduces detection time compared to traditional methods. This enhanced speed is accompanied by a high degree of accuracy, efficiency, and sensitivity. Most research findings indicated that the entire process took anywhere from less than an hour to five hours. It is important to note that this approach bypasses the need for minimum inhibitory concentration measurements, as it does not rely on traditional methodologies. Microfluidic devices enable the rapid identification and accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing of E. faecalis, which are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment in endodontic infections.

In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of a Broadly Neutralizing Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Isolated from a Semi-Immune Phage Display Library.

Neutralizing antibodies targeting the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 are among the most promising strategies to prevent and/or treat COVID-19. However, as SARS-CoV-2 has evolved into new variants, most of the neutralizing antibodies authorized by the US FDA and/or EMA to treat COVID-19 have shown reduced efficacy or have failed to neutralize the variants of concern (VOCs), particularly B.1.1.529 (Omicron). Previously, we reported the discovery and characterization of antibodies with high affinity for SARS-CoV-2 RBD Wuhan (WT), B.1.617.2 (Delta), and B.1.1.529 (Omicron) strains. One of the antibodies, called IgG-A7, also blocked the interaction of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) with the RBDs of the three strains, suggesting it may be a broadly SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody. Herein, we show that IgG-A7 efficiently neutralizes all the three SARS-CoV-2 strains in plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNTs). In addition, we demonstrate that IgG-A7 fully protects K18-hACE2 transgenic mice infected with SARS-CoV-2 WT. Taken together, our findings indicate that IgG-A7 could be a suitable candidate for development of antibody-based drugs to treat and/or prevent SARS-CoV-2 VOCs infection.

Oral Supplementation with Hydrolyzed Fish Cartilage Improves the Morphological and Structural Characteristics of the Skin: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study.

Collagen and its peptides are natural ingredients used in food supplements and nutricosmetics with the claim of providing benefits for skin health and beauty. In this context, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of oral supplementation with hydrolyzed fish cartilage for the improvement of chronological and photoaging-induced skin changes. A total of 46 healthy females aged 45 to 59 years were enrolled and divided into two groups: G1-placebo and G2-oral treatment with hydrolyzed fish cartilage. Measurements of skin wrinkles, dermis echogenicity and thickness, and morphological and structural characteristics of the skin were performed in the nasolabial region of the face before and after a 90-day period of treatment using high-resolution imaging, ultrasound, and reflectance confocal microscopy image analyses. A significant reduction in wrinkles and an increase of dermis echogenicity were observed after a 90-day period of treatment with hydrolyzed fish cartilage compared to the placebo and baseline values. In addition, reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) image analysis showed improved collagen morphology and reduced elastosis after treatment with hydrolyzed fish cartilage. The present study showed the clinical benefits for the skin obtained with oral supplementation with a low dose of collagen peptides from hydrolyzed fish cartilage.

Intervention bimanual stimulates the abilities in infants with asymmetry / A intervenção bimanual estimula as habilidades em bebês com assimetria

Abstract Introduction: The cerebral palsy and brachial plexus injury may cause asymmetry in the use of the upper limbs (UL). This condition requires early treatment to reduce the impact of the child's life; therefore, several proposed interventions aim to increase their functional independence. The Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy (HABIT) have been widely considered effective interventions to improve hand function. Objective: Investigate the effects of an intervention protocol based on the CIMT and HABIT theoretical foundations in the stimulation of manual function in infants with the UL asymmetry. Methods: Five infants (6-24 months) participated in the study. To evaluate the motor function of infants we used Pediatric Motor Activity Log (PMAL-R) and Manual Function Evaluation (AMIGO), and to assess the caregiver's perception of the participation of the infant in daily tasks, we used the Pediatric Disability Assessment Inventory (PEDI). All evaluations occurred before, immediately after the intervention, and after four months for follow-up recording, and were analyzed descriptively by Jacobson- Truax method. Results: The results between evaluation and reevaluation demonstrated evolution in all aspects studied. In the PEDI self-care session, an average of 38.6 (±8.4) - 44.2 (±7.4); PEDI Mobility: 28.8 (±20.3) - 36.28 (±21.7); PEDI Social Function: 40.1 (±10.2) - 42.3 (±8.9). The PMAL-R quantity and quality results evidence a highly positive clinical significance in all infants. Conclusion: The application of the modified restriction intervention protocol resulted in reliable and clinically significant changes in all cases.

Resumo Introdução: A paralisia cerebral e a lesão do plexo braquial podem causar assimetria no uso dos membros superiores (MS). Esta condição requer tratamento precoce para reduzir o impacto na vida do indivíduo, portanto várias intervenções têm sido propostas com o objetivo final de aumentar sua independência funcional. A terapia de movimento induzido por restrição (CIMT) e a terapia intensiva bimanual de mão-braço (HABIT) têm sido amplamente eficazes para aumentar a função da mão. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos de um protocolo de intervenção beseado nos fundamentos teóricos da CIMT e do HABIT, na estimulação da função manual em bebês com assimetria de MS. Métodos: Cinco crianças (6-24 meses) participaram do estudo. Para avaliar a função motora dos lactentes foram utilizados o Pediatric Motor Activity Log (PMAL) e a Avaliação de Função Manual (AMIGO); o Pediatric Disability Assessment Inventory (PEDI) foi aplicado aos cuidadores, a fim de avaliar sua percepção da participação funcional do lactente nas tarefas diárias. Todas as avaliações ocorreram antes, imediatamente após a intervenção e após quatro meses para registro de acompanhamento. Os dados foram analisados descritivamente pelo método de Jacobson-Truax. Resultados: Os resultados entre avaliação e reavaliação demonstraram evolução em todos os aspectos estudados. Na sessão de autocuidado do PEDI, a média de 38,6 (±8,4) foi para 44,2 (±7,4); PEDI - Mobilidade: de 28,8 (±20,3) a 36,28 (±21,7); PEDI - Função Social: de 40,1 (±10,2) a 42,3 (±8,9). Os resultados de quantidade e qualidade do PMAL-R evidenciam um significado clínico altamente positivo em todos os bebês. Conclusão: A aplicação do protocolo de intervenção de restrição modificado resultou em alterações confiáveis e clinicamente significativas em todos os casos.

Clinical efficacy of controlled-release morphine tablets combined with celecoxib in pain management and the effects on WNK1 expression

OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of controlled-release morphine tablets combined with celecoxib in relieving osteocarcinoma-related pain and the effects of the combination on WNK1 expression. METHODS: A total of 110 patients with osteocarcinoma-related pain were selected and divided into two groups based on the treatment administered, including the control group (treated with controlled-release morphine tablets alone) and the study group (treated with a combination of controlled-release morphine tablets and celecoxib). We compared the treatment efficacy, pain level (visual analog scale (VAS)), time of onset of breakthrough pain (BTP), dose of morphine, incidence of adverse events, quality of life (QOL) score, and With-no-lysine 1 (WNK1) expression in the peripheral blood (PB) as determined with qRT-PCR before and after treatment, of the two groups. RESULTS: The total effective rate of the study group was higher than that of the control group, while the VAS score, time of onset of BTP, dose of morphine, incidence of adverse events, QOL score, and relative WNK1 expression in the PB were lower than those of the control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Combination treatment with controlled-release morphine tablets and celecoxib can be extensively used in the clinical setting because it effectively improves the symptoms, QOL score, and adverse effects in patients with osteocarcinoma-related pain.

Evaluating the efficacy of vitalstim electrical stimulation combined with swallowing function training for treating

OBJECTIVES: This study explored the clinical efficacy of VitalStim electrical stimulation combined with swallowing function training for patients with dysphagia following an acute stroke. METHODS: Seventy-two patients with dysphagia following an acute stroke were admitted to our hospital and were further divided into two groups using prospective research methods. There were 36 cases in each group according to the random number table method. The control group received conventional medical treatment and swallowing function training while the experimental group received conventional medical treatment and VitalStim electrical stimulation combined with swallowing function training. RESULTS: The overall response rate of the experimental group (94.44%) was higher than that of the control group (77.78%), and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Compared with before treatment, the upward and forward movement speeds of the hyoid bone, anterior movement speed, the grading score of the Kubota drinking water test, Caiteng's grading score, serum superoxide dismutase, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and norepinephrine levels, Fugl-Meyer Assessment score, and multiple quality of life scores of the two groups showed improvement after treatment. While the standard swallowing assessment score, serum malondialdehyde level, and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score decreased, the aforementioned indices showed a significant improvement in the experimental group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that VitalStim electrical stimulation combined with swallowing function is effective for treating dysphagia following an acute stroke. It can effectively improve swallowing, neurological, and limb motor functions, reduce complications, promote physical recovery, and improve overall quality of life of patients.

The use of isotretinoin for acne - an update on optimal dosing, surveillance, and adverse effects.

INTRODUCTION: Acne is a chronic, inflammatory, and immune mediated disease of pilosebaceous unit, highly prevalent in adolescents. It involves face, trunk, and back; may leave scars and affect quality of life. Early, effective, and safe treatment is the key for disease resolution. Oral isotretinoin is the unique treatment for cure or prolonged remission for moderate and severe acne, preventing psychosocial impact and scars. It inhibits sebaceous glands activity and has anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties. AREAS COVERED: We performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed database, up to March 2020, regarding oral isotretinoin for acne treatment. We synthetized data about acne pathogenesis and mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of isotretinoin. EXPERT OPINION: This drug is effective, despite common, controllable, and reversible mucocutaneous side effects. Serious adverse events are rare and represent individual reactions. Teratogenicity is the most severe, requiring rigorous control. We believe that no other therapeutic option, even topicals combined to oral antibiotics accomplish same results. Recurrence after treatments other than isotretinoin is the rule, prolonging risk of scars, compromising skin appearance, and causing emotional distress in teenagers. If there is no absolute contraindication, isotretinoin should be the first line treatment for moderate to severe inflammatory acne.

Skin characterization and immediate effects of different dermocosmetic treatments in French and Brazilian skin.

BACKGROUND: All over the world, people face the same skin problems. However, their skin characteristics are different. Thus, it is a challenge to prescribe treatments that will be effective on different skin types. Therefore, it is very important to consider the skin biology when indicating a dermocosmetic treatment. OBJECTIVES: To assess skin biophysical parameters in French and Brazilian subjects and to verify the efficacy of four dermocosmetic treatments in these populations. METHODS: Five test areas were defined on each volar forearm of the eighteen Brazilian and eighteen French participants using a randomized design. Biophysical measurements in terms of skin hydration, skin barrier function, skin brightness, and skin viscoelasticity were performed before and after 60 minutes of treatment. RESULTS: Skin biophysical differences between populations were found. French skin has been shown to be more hydrated regarding epidermal mechanic properties and stratum corneum water content and more radiant when compared with Brazilian skin. However, it showed more signs of cutaneous aging and fatigue effects on skin. The Brazilian skin showed better skin barrier function. In addition, the treatments were effective in both populations. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the differences found in French and Brazilian skin, the proposed dermocosmetic treatments showed effective in both populations.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination: from clinical studies to immunization programs.

Cervical cancer incidence and mortality have decreased in high-income countries, but low- and middle-income countries continue to bear a significant burden from the disease. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are a promising alternative for disease control; however, their introduction is slow in settings with greater need. We conducted a review of HPV vaccine efficacy and effectiveness reported in clinical trials and population-based studies. Efficacy of HPV vaccines is close to 100% when using a three-dose schedule in HPV-negative young women (<25 years old) for protection against persistent infection and HPV vaccine-type associated pre-cancerous lesions. Furthermore, sustained protection for up to 12 years of follow-up has been demonstrated; cross-protection against non-vaccine types is particularly observed for the bivalent vaccine, and preliminary data regarding impact on invasive cancer have emerged. Given its lower efficacy, catch-up vaccination beyond 19 years of age and proposals for vaccinating adult women deserve careful evaluation in accurately designed studies and economic analyses. Despite positive results regarding immunogenicity and post-hoc analysis for cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia in clinical trials, population-based data for prime and booster two-dose schedules are not available. Evaluation of vaccine safety from surveillance systems in immunization programs that have already distributed more than 270 million doses found no association of HPV vaccination with serious side effects. The introduction of HPV vaccination in national immunization programs remains the main challenge in tackling the burden of cervical cancer (up to 2018, only 89 countries have introduced vaccination worldwide, and most of these are high-income countries). Access models and technical capacity require further development to help low- and middle-income countries to increase the pace of vaccine delivery. Alternative approaches such as one-dose schedules and vaccination at younger ages may help reduce the programmatic and economic challenges to adolescent vaccination.

Influence of UV filters on the texture profile and efficacy of a cosmetic formulation.

OBJECTIVE: Considering that many cosmetic products contain UV filters in their composition and that few studies have evaluated the role of UV filters in the physical properties and clinical efficacy of these products, the aim of this study was to assess the influence of UV filters on the properties and immediate effects of a cosmetic formulation. METHODS: Four cosmetic formulations, vehicle (V), vehicle containing UV filters (F), vehicle containing cassava polysaccharides and alfalfa (A) oligosaccharides and vehicle containing UV filters plus cassava polysaccharides and alfalfa oligosaccharides (multifunctional formulation, M) were developed. The texture profile of the formulations was analysed with a TA.XT plus Texturometer® . Twenty female volunteers aged 39-45 years were then selected for the assessment of immediate clinical efficacy of the formulations under study and of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum water content and microrelief of the skin obtained with their use. RESULTS: The presence of UV filters resulted in an improvement of the physical properties of the multifunctional cosmetic formulation (M) and of skin microrelief. However, the presence of UV filters also caused a significant decrease in hydration. CONCLUSION: The presence of sunscreens had a negative influence on immediate skin hydration and TEWL. On the other hand, it positively influenced parameters related to the physical properties of the multifunctional formulation and skin microrelief. Thus, we conclude that the influence of UV filters on the development of cosmetic formulations is an important factor to be considered because it can have either positive or negative effect on the efficacy of the product.

Financial Analysis of an Intensive Pediatric Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Program.

Study Objectives: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea in children, but adherence to therapy is low. Our center created an intensive program that aimed to improve adherence. Our objective was to estimate the program's efficacy, cost, revenue and break-even point in a generalizable manner relative to a standard approach. Methods: The intensive program included device consignment, behavioral psychology counseling, and follow-up telephone calls. Economic modeling considered the costs, revenue and break-even point. Costs were derived from national salary reports and the Pediatric Health Information System. The 2015 Medicare reimbursement schedule provided revenue estimates. Results: Prior to the intensive CPAP program, only 67.6% of 244 patients initially prescribed CPAP appeared for follow-up visits and only 38.1% had titration polysomnograms. In contrast, 81.4% of 275 patients in the intensive program appeared for follow-up visits (p < .001) and 83.6% had titration polysomnograms (p < .001). Medicare reimbursement levels would be insufficient to cover the estimated costs of the intensive program; break-even points would need to be 1.29-2.08 times higher to cover the costs. Conclusions: An intensive CPAP program leads to substantially higher follow-up and CPAP titration rates, but costs are higher. While affordable at our institution due to the local payer mix and revenue, Medicare reimbursement levels would not cover estimated costs. This study highlights the need for enhanced funding for pediatric CPAP programs, due to the special needs of this population and the long-term health risks of suboptimally treated obstructive sleep apnea.

Topical Formulation Containing Beeswax-Based Nanoparticles Improved In Vivo Skin Barrier Function.

Lipid nanoparticles have shown many advantages for treatment/prevention of skin disorders with damaged skin barrier function. Beeswax is a favorable candidate for the development of nanosystems in the cosmetic and dermatological fields because of its advantages for the development of products for topical application. In the present study, beeswax-based nanoparticles (BNs) were prepared using the hot melt microemulsion technique and incorporated to a gel-cream formulation. The formulation was subsequently evaluated for its rheological stability and effect on stratum corneum water content (SCWC) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) using in vivo biophysical techniques. BNs resulted in mean particle size of 95.72 ± 9.63 nm and zeta potential of -9.85 ± 0.57 mV. BN-loaded formulation showed shear thinning behavior, well adjusted by the Herschel-Bulkley model, and a small thixotropy index that were stable for 28 days at different temperatures. BN-loaded formulation was also able to simultaneously decrease the TEWL and increase the SCWC values 28 days after treatment. In conclusion, the novel beeswax-based nanoparticles showed potential for barrier recovery and open the perspective for its commercial use as a novel natural active as yet unexplored in the field of dermatology and cosmetics for treatment of skin diseases with damaged skin barrier function.

Acetyl hexapeptide-3 in a cosmetic formulation acts on skin mechanical properties - clinical study

abstract Acetyl hexapeptide-3 has been used in anti-aging topical formulations aimed at improving skin appearance. However, few basic studies address its effects on epidermis and dermis, when vehiculated in topical formulations. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the clinical efficacy of acetyl hexapeptide-3 using biophysical techniques. For this purpose, formulations with and without acetyl hexapeptide-3 were applied to the ventral forearm and the face area of forty female volunteers. Skin conditions were evaluated after 2 and 4-week long daily applications, by analyzing the stratum corneum water content and the skin mechanical properties, using three instruments, the Corneometer(r) CM 825, CutometerSEM 575 and ReviscometerRV600. All formulations tested increased the stratum corneum water content in the face region, which remained constant until the end of the study. In contrast, only formulations containing acetyl hexapeptide-3 exhibit a significant effect on mechanical properties, by decreasing the anisotropy of the face skin. No significant effects were observed in viscoelasticity parameters. In conclusion, the effects of acetyl hexapeptide-3 on the anisotropy of face skin characterize the compound as an effective ingredient for improving conditions of the cutaneous tissue, when used in anti-aging cosmetic formulations.

resumo Acetil hexapeptídeo-3 tem sido utilizado como um ingrediente ativo em formulações tópicas antienvelhecimento para a melhoria da aparência cutânea. No entanto, poucos estudos avaliam seus efeitos na epiderme e derme, quando veiculado em formulações tópicas. Portanto, o objetivo desse estudo foi a determinação da eficácia clínica de acetil hexapeptídeo-3 utilizando técnicas de biofísica e de análise de imagem. Para tal, formulações contendo, ou não, acetil hexapeptídeo-3 foram aplicadas no antebraço volar e na face de voluntárias. As condições cutâneas foram avaliadas após duas e quatro semanas de aplicação diária das formulações, por meio da análise no conteúdo aquoso do estrato córneo e avaliação das propriedades mecânicas da pele, utilizando os equipamentos Corneometer(r) CM 825, CutometerSEM 575 e ReviscometerRV600. Todas as formulações avaliadas aumentaram o conteúdo aquoso do estrato córneo na face, o qual permaneceu constante até o fim do estudo. Por outro lado, somente as formulações contendo acetil hexapeptídeo-3 apresentaram efeito significativo nas propriedades mecânicas, por meio da diminuição da anisotropia da pele na face. Não foram observados efeitos significativos para os parâmetros de viscoelasticidade. Em conclusão, os efeitos de acetil hexapeptídeo-3 na pele caracteriza este peptídeo como um ingrediente ativo efetivo para a melhoria das condições cutâneas, quando utilizadas em formulações cosméticas.